A thatcher is a highly skilled craftsperson who lays and maintains traditional thatched roofs. There are approximately 600-800 working thatchers in England. Thatched roofs are the defining feature of many listed buildings in rural areas, and their repair and replacement must be carried out by an experienced specialist familiar with the appropriate material for the region and the requirements of listed building consent where it applies.
What they do
- Lay new thatching material over existing or stripped base coat
- Replace ridges using traditional ornamented techniques
- Carry out patch repairs after storm or bird damage
- Fix sway rods, spars and liggers to secure the thatch
- Apply fire retardant treatments to new thatch
- Carry out condition surveys before and after works
- Advise on listed building consent requirements
- Work to regional thatching traditions appropriate to the area
When you need one
Any work to a thatched roof - from ridge replacement to full re-thatching - requires a qualified thatcher.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Ridge replacement | £3,000 - £6,000 |
| Partial re-thatching (per square - approx 9.3 sq m) | £1,500 - £3,500 |
| Full re-thatching (per square) | £2,000 - £4,500 |
| Full house re-thatching | £25,000 - £60,000+ |
| Emergency repair | £500 - £2,000 |
| Condition survey | £200 - £500 |
Thatching costs vary significantly by material (water reed is most expensive), region and complexity of roof shape. Prices in the South and West of England may differ from other regions. Always obtain at least two quotes from NSMT members.
Qualifications to look for
NSMT membership is the quality indicator for thatchers. Members must demonstrate experience, skill and adhere to a code of practice. Find NSMT members at masterthatcher.co.uk.
The Thatch Advice Centre maintains a list of experienced thatchers and provides guidance on all aspects of thatched roof maintenance and insurance.
How to find a reputable thatcher
Frequently asked questions
How long does thatch last?
Water reed is the most durable, typically lasting 25-40 years for the main coat. Combed wheat reed lasts 25-35 years. Long straw lasts 15-25 years. The ridge requires replacement more frequently - every 10-15 years regardless of the material used for the main coat.
Does a thatched roof need planning permission?
Replacing a thatched roof like-for-like with the same material is usually permitted development. Changing from one thatching material to another (for example from long straw to water reed) may require planning consent, especially on listed buildings where the original material may be specified as a condition of listing. Always check with the local planning authority before changing material.
Is thatch a fire risk?
Thatch is combustible and fire risk is real, particularly from chimney sparks. Fire retardant treatments can be applied to new thatch. A spark arrestor on the chimney is strongly recommended for all thatched properties. Specialist thatched property home insurance is available but premiums reflect the higher risk - shop around via a specialist broker.